Are you listening?

If we are not listening we are not learning and if we are not learning we are limiting ourselves to only what we know and nothing more.

Listening seems like a simple concept but there are a few skills involved.

Put your cell phone down, move away from your computer or tv, and give the other person your undivided attention.

Show that you are listening by asking clarifying questions and replying.

Do not judge or criticize.

If the conversation you are listening to has heightened your emotions you should pause and respond appropriately with respect.

Understand that something inside of you may have been triggered because you have been introduced to a concept or view that differs from yours and you now have a responsibility to add this new perspective to your database.

Weigh and rationalize and defer a long response if you need to.

"I had not thought of that" or "that is an interesting concept" are acceptable replies when taking in new information.

Active listening is a superpower that develops trust and loyalty and most importantly Psychological Safety (more on that next week).

What can you do today to improve your active listening? Whom are you going to practice this on first?

https://expanding-excellence.com/f/are-you-listening

#listening #leadership #superpower #selfimprovement